Search soapcentral.com

Relative newcomer Drew Garrett is out as General Hospital's Michael Corinthos. The role of Sonny and Carly's son will be recast and featured heavily in storyline leading up to May Sweeps. Garrett debuted on GH in April 2009.

In a stunning course change, soapcentral.com has learned that General Hospital has opted to recast the role of Michael Corinthos. As a result, newcomer Drew Garrett is out after less than a year with the show.

In a statement, a General Hospital spokesperson confirms the recast, but did not elaborate on the reason for switching actors.

"We want to thank Drew Garrett for his time with General Hospital and wish him well in all his future endeavors," the spokesperson said in a statement.

Garrett joined the cast of General Hospital on April 24, 2009, himself part of a surprising recast of the role of Michael. Garrett took over the role of Michael from Dylan Cash, who was reportedly blindsided by his dismissal from the show. Cash had played the role of Michael for more than six years. ABC's announcement that Garrett was joining the show was preceded by months of rumors that Michael would be "aged" to accommodate future storyline.

Last month, Garrett earned an Emmy "pre-nomination" in the Outstanding Younger Actor category.

Taking over as Michael is actor Chad Duell, best known for his work on Wizards of Waverly Place. Duell is already at work on the ABC soap and will first air on April 20.